I was married to a woman from Thailand for 15 years and we managed two trips to her country during that time.  She lived in northern Thailand in a small city near Lampang called, Kohkah.  The landscape is unlike any in this country with hills which jut up out of forested areas creating an almost caricature appearance.

When I look back to those times I recall how tranquil my visits there were.  No doubt the remoteness played a part.  Once you were able to make your way out of the hustle of the city and into the back areas it was remarkable.  The pace of life slowed down so much that you for once found yourself looking at the more often unnoticed details all around you.  I have so many vivid memories from those trips.  Even strolls through crowded Bangkok have an almost surreal charm.  Be there in the morning or evening when the national flag is raised and lowered as all the traffic, both pedestrian and automobile comes to a stop as people show their respect. 

Many of the people there are so poor by our standards but so rich in what really matters.  They're a very proud people who don't require much in the way of posessions to find happiness in their lives.  If you ever go there, there is one saying you should learn and that is "Mai pen rai", which translates to, "no worries".  It's expected that those remain at home.

Kevin g